Coronavirus information and guidance

Coronavirus safety: Five-point guidance for people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds

Research shows that if you are from a Black, Asian or minority ethnic background you are at a greater risk of both catching, becoming seriously ill and dying from COVID-19.

Here are some things you and others can do to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19.

1. Know the risks
   • Men are much more likely to die from COVID-19 than women
   • Men of African, Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani heritage are more likely to die from COVID-19 than white men
   • Black women are more likely to die from COVID-19 than white women
   • You are at higher risk if you are aged over 65, and even greater risk if you are aged over 85
   • Some health conditions also make you more vulner-able to COVID-19. These include diabetes and hy-pertension
   • Understand how these risks impact on you and your family.
2. Maintain good hygiene 
   • Wash your hands frequently
   • Catch coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues
   • Throw away used tissues
   • If you don’t have a tissue use your sleeve
   • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
   • Avoid contact with people who are unwell.
3. Protect yourself and others
   • Keep the recommended social distance of two metres where possible, one metre as a minimum
   • Wear a face covering; you must do so on public transport and try to do so you’re if likely to be in con-tact with others
   • Be careful at family or social events
   • Think about others in the group who may be more vulnerable than you
   • If you think you have COVID-19 stay home and get tested.
4. Talk about your concerns
   • Talk to your GP or call 111 if you think you have symptoms
   • If you’re worried about returning to work, talk to your employer
   • If you’re worried about talking to your employer, talk to your union or the Health and Safety Executive
   • If you need emotional support see NHS Every Mind Matters. 
5. Stay healthy
   • Your health matters
   • Staying healthy reduces your risk of getting ill
   • Follow the five steps to wellbeing.

Research sources: ONS Coronavirus (COVID-19) related deaths by ethnic group, England and Wales: 2 March 2020 to 15 May 2020 
Public Health England: COVID-19: Review of disparities in risks and outcomes
Public Health England: Beyond the data: Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on BAME groups

More information: gov.uk/coronavirus

Published by Essex Resilience Forum, July 2020
Essexprepared.co.uk